> You can simulate every molecular interaction in a fire, but that does not mean the simulation gives off the same heat
It would to a simulated being standing next to the fire.
> You can write a perfectly accurate equation for splitting an atom, but the equation does not release energy.
It releases simulated energy inside the simulation.
Every material interaction is simulated. If you believe that consciousness can't exist in the simulation, then you believe that consciousness is not a material interaction, q.e.d.